Karmapa: Fin Ministry seeks report from HP Govt

Jan 29, 2011

Category: Police Raid Jan 2011

New Delhi: On the controversy surrounding the Karmapa Lama, the Finance Ministry has asked for a report from the Himachal Pradesh government.While the Karmapa was questioned by a three member team of Himachal police, his treasurer Shakti Lama has been sent to police custody till February 5. His secretary's house which was sealed was searched by the police on Saturday. Currency worth Rs 6 crore has been seized out of which Rs 1.14 lakh is in Chinese Yuan. The wads are in serial number leading the police to suspect that it was for a specific purpose.Meanwhile, teams are in Delhi and elsewhere to look for source of money. Police suspect money has been used for buying land to set up trusts, monasteries, schools especially in Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim

"We are investigating the money which pertains to Chinese currency and we are looking into that angle," PL Thakur, DIG, Dehradun told the newsmen.

Himachal Pradesh government has promised full support to the Centre in the imquiry of the case.

"Enforcement Directorate, Intelligence Bureau and Income Tax have already started the investigation. We will exend full support to the Central government in the inquiry," said Prem Kumar Dhumal, Chief Minister, Himachal Pradesh.

Law Minister Veerappa Moily said the law of the land is strong enough to catch the perpetrators of such crimes.

Karmapa's office administration has denied all allegations of wrongdoing. In a statement issued by the office it has been said: "We are in a position to meet any demand that the authorities may have to prove that our activities strictly adhere to every law, and most of all with the teachinsg of our faith and God."

The Himachal police had recovered Rs 1.6 crore during a raid at Karmapa' office in Dharamsala on Thursday. One person was arrested from Karmapa's office. The Karmapa Lama may be questioned over suspected links to China, especially in connection with monasteries along the border.

Karmapa speaks only Chinese and is being aided by a translator in his conversation.

Sources say 1.14 lakh Chinese Yuan is in serial number. Such a large consignment can only be meant for particular purpose.